Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe

Every holiday season, as the chill sets in and the festive lights start twinkling, I can’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia thinking about my grandmother’s kitchen. It was always filled with laughter, the aroma of freshly baked cookies, and the joyous chaos of family gatherings. One of her most beloved creations was her Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe, a delightful treat that perfectly embodies the spirit of togetherness. Layered with sweet cookies, creamy goodness, and a sprinkle of holiday magic, it’s a dessert that brings everyone around the table, sharing stories and indulging in the flavors of the season.

This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a way to celebrate the holidays with those we love. The Christmas Cookie Lasagna is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy days filled with shopping and decorating. Plus, it’s a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive party with friends. Trust me, once you serve this, your guests will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!

Why You’ll Love "Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe"

• Quick prep time: Whip it up in just 30 minutes!
• No baking required: It’s a no-bake dessert, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves layering their own cookie lasagna and it’s sure to be a hit with kids!
• Minimal ingredients: Just a handful of simple ingredients make this dessert easy to create.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill, saving you time on the big day.
• Customizable: Add your favorite festive flavors or toppings for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 24 Christmas sugar cookies (or shortbread cookies, feel free to use your favorite brand)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (use unsalted for better control over sweetness)
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (let it sit at room temperature for easier mixing)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar (you can adjust this to taste if you like it less sweet)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract gives the best flavor)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or whipped topping (heavy cream will give a richer taste)
• 1 package (3.4 oz / 96g) instant vanilla pudding mix (instant is key for the quick prep)
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) cold milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a lovely festive flavor)
• ½ cup crushed Christmas cookies (for topping, use the same kind as in the crust)
• 2 cups whipped topping (for a light and airy finish; you can also use homemade)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Even though we won’t be baking anything, it’s always nice to have a warm kitchen while we work!

Prepare the Crust

1. Grab your Christmas sugar cookies or shortbread cookies and place them in a large zip-top bag. Grab a rolling pin or a good old-fashioned heavy pot and crush those cookies into fine crumbs. You want a texture that resembles sand—this will help form a nice, sturdy crust.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the crushed cookies with 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Use a fork to combine them until the crumbs are moistened and resemble wet sand.
3. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to make sure it’s packed down tightly; this will help hold everything together once we layer it!

Make the Cream Cheese Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using an electric mixer. Start on low speed to avoid a sugary explosion, then increase to medium until smooth and creamy.
2. Next, gently fold in 1 cup of heavy cream or whipped topping. If you’re using heavy cream, whip it until soft peaks form before folding it in. This step adds a lovely lightness to the cream cheese layer. Don’t overmix; you want to keep that airy texture!

Prepare the Pudding Layer

1. In another bowl, whisk together 1 package of instant vanilla pudding mix and 1 ½ cups of cold milk. Stir until it thickens—this usually takes about 2 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
2. If you’re feeling a little extra festive, add ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the pudding mixture for a delightful flavor boost! And don’t forget to fold in ½ cup of crushed Christmas cookies for a fun crunch.

Assemble the Layers

1. Now it’s time to layer! Start by spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust in your baking dish. Make sure it covers the entire surface, right up to the edges.
2. Next, pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring it reaches all corners of the dish.
3. Finally, top it all off with 2 cups of whipped topping. Again, spread it out evenly and don’t be shy—this layer adds a nice fluffy finish!

Chill and Serve

1. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long. This chilling time helps all those delicious layers meld together!
2. When you’re ready to serve, remove it from the fridge and slice it into squares. You can even sprinkle a few extra crushed cookies on top for that festive look. Enjoy your creation and the joyful moments it brings to your table!

Variations

• Try swapping out half of the sugar cookies for gingerbread cookies for a spiced twist.
• Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
• Add in layers of fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.
• Use flavored pudding mixes, like chocolate or butterscotch, to switch things up.
• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese and reduce the sugar.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Slice the Christmas Cookie Lasagna into squares and serve chilled for the best texture. You can garnish each piece with a sprinkle of crushed Christmas cookies or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra festive touch. Aim for portions of about 2-3 squares per person, especially if there are other holiday treats on the table!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices for up to a month. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Helpful Notes

• For a lighter dessert, consider using low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat whipped topping.
• Feel free to swap the granulated sugar for a sugar substitute if you're looking to reduce calories.
• For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or sprinkles between the layers.
• If you have nut allergies, omit the almond extract and ensure your cookie choice is nut-free.
• Experiment with different flavored extracts like peppermint for a holiday twist!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Christmas Cookie Lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze Christmas Cookie Lasagna! To do this, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This way, you won’t lose any of those delicious layers!

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you're looking to substitute cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture. Greek yogurt is another great option for a lighter version, but be sure to adjust the sugar to taste since yogurt can be tangier. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How long does the lasagna need to chill?

For the best results, the lasagna should chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. However, if you can wait overnight, that’s even better! This chilling time allows all the layers to set and meld together beautifully, enhancing the flavors and making it easier to slice.

Final Thoughts

As you gather around the table this holiday season, I hope you’ll give this Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe a try. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a way to create sweet memories with your loved ones, sharing joy, laughter, and delicious treats. Remember, cooking should be fun and a little messy, just like the holidays themselves! So roll up your sleeves, enjoy the process, and let the magic of the season fill your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to taste this, and I know it will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!

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